St Katherine’s car park in Ledbury will be partly closed on Thursday 10 & Friday 11 of February to enable tree works.
The works are part of improvements being made to the grounds around the Master’s House and will include the removal of two conifers and their replacement with substantial native trees. The new planting scheme is designed to reflect the historical garden setting of the Master’s House and to provide improved habitat for native bird and insect species.
The work to the trees also opens up more options for an improved lay-out of St Katherine’s car park, which is the largest and most convenient of the town’s visitor car parks. The Landscaping works are funded by £120,000 for improvements to the visitor space and public realm around the Master’s House.
Cllr Liz Harvey, Ward Member and Cabinet member for Planning, said: “I appreciate that the proposed removal and replacement of these two trees generated mixed feelings during public consultation on the plans. After reviewing expert advice and following careful consideration, the decision has been made to go ahead with their replacement as part of an enhanced landscaping scheme for the whole of St Katherine’s.
“I’m also excited at the prospect that we shall be able to reuse the timber from the cedars in town centre projects, and I look forward to sharing these plans once they are confirmed.”
Cllr Davies, Cabinet Member for Assets, said: “Herefordshire Council is sorry for the inevitable inconvenience caused by the partial closure of the car park while the felling takes place. However, I am aware that many people have been keen to see this project started and I’m very hopeful that the flexible public space we are creating will be a real asset to the town for generations to come.”
This project is supported by Section 106 funding, which is money provided under legal agreement by a developer as part of a specific planning proposal. Herefordshire Council negotiates Section 106 agreements, and ensures the funding is used in the most appropriate way to benefit the local economy, infrastructure and communities.